AFP activates disaster response units in ‘Quinta' path areas

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 26, 2020): AFP activates disaster response units in ‘Quinta' path areas (By Priam Nepomuceno)

AFP chief-of-staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (File photo)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, ordered all units in areas along the path of Typhoon 'Quinta' to activate their disaster response teams to help with disaster relief efforts.

"He (Gapay) likewise tasked said unit commanders to activate their respective disaster response teams," AFP spokesperson, Marine, Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, quoted Gapay in a statement late Sunday.

Gapay has instructed all units to be prepared to deploy and assist local government units and other relevant agencies in the preventive evacuation or force evacuation if needed.

Arevalo added that Gapay has also directed AFP ground commanders in the path of “Quinta” to exercise all precautions necessary to ensure safety of military personnel and equipment to include aircraft, ships, and other key assets.

"Commanders are also enjoined, that in such deployments, their personnel should adhere to minimum health protocol," he added.

Arevalo is hoping that all residents in the affected areas will go to the evacuation centers in their localities and take advantage of AFP assistance ahead of the typhoon's onslaught.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1119671

Cascolan wants SAF to specialize in seaborne operations

From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 25, 2020): Cascolan wants SAF to specialize in seaborne operations (By Aaron Recuenco)

Elite police commandos from the Special Action Force (SAF) should specialize in seaborne operations due to the country’s geographical features, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Camilo Pancratius Cascolan said.

Police Lt. Gen. Camilo Pancratius Cascola (Facebook / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)

Since the Philippines is surrounded by water and composed of more than 7,000 islands, Cascolan said it is important for seaborne training programs to expand to include all the members of SAF, the most elite strike force of the PNP.

“SAF will be specialized in such a way that we will be training more of seaborne operations. This is part of further improving their operational capability,” said Cascolan.

SAF is the well-trained and well-equipped unit of the PNP. SAF commandos are involved in anti-insurgency, anti-terrorism, and big anti-crime operations.

Currently, seaborne-trained SAF are deployed in western parts of Mindanao, especially in Zamboanga, which serves as a staging area for operations against the Abu Sayyaf and other terror groups in Basilan and Sulu.

“If we have seaborne [operations] in Mindanao, we dream that there are also seaborne troops in the Visayas and the northern tip of Luzon,” said Cascolan.

Cascolan said that once the training programs are done and necessary equipment are secured for the SAF, the plan is to make their presence felt in all areas with insurgency and terrorism problems.

President Duterte has allowed the recruitment of more SAF commandos to assist the military in defeating the communist insurgents and local terror groups. 

https://mb.com.ph/2020/10/25/cascolan-wants-saf-to-specialize-in-seaborne-operations/

CPP/News: Depisito sa badyet ng US, sumirit sa gitna ng pandemya

Propaganda news article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Oct 24, 2020): Depisito sa badyet ng US, sumirit sa gitna ng pandemya

NEWS STORIES
OCTOBER 24, 2020

Inilahad ng US Congressional Budget Office (CBO) noong Oktubre 8 na pumalo na sa $3.1 trilyon ang depisito sa badyet ng bansa, pinakamataas na naitala nito pagkatapos ng Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig.

Mula Setyembre 2019 hanggang Setyembre 2020, tinatayang gumastos ang US ng $6.55 trilyon samantalang $3.42 trilyon lamang ang kinita nitong buwis. Halos triple ang itinaas ng depisito kumpara sa naitala sa nakaraang taon. Malaking bahagi ng gastusin ($4 trilyon) ay inilaan para ayudahan kapwa ang mga kapitalista at mga manggagawa sa gitna ng pandemya. Tinatayang lalaki pa ito lalupa’t nagpapatuloy ang pananalasa ng Covid-19 sa bansa.

Kaugnay nito, nagpahayag ng pangamba ang CBO na posibleng maungusan na ng utang ng US ang laki ng ekonomya nito. Anito, tinatayang tataas ang pederal na utang ng US tungong $20.63 trilyon ngayong taon o katumbas ng 106% ng gross domestic product nito. Mas mataas ito sa naitalang $17-trilyong utang noong 2019 na katumbas naman ng 80% ng GDP sa parehong taon.

https://cpp.ph/2020/10/24/depisito-sa-badyet-ng-us-sumirit-sa-gitna-ng-pandemya/

EASTMINCOM: Former NPA mass supporters hold Peace Rally, withdraw support from NPA in MisOr

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Oct 23, 2020): Former NPA mass supporters hold Peace Rally, withdraw support from NPA in MisOr

CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental - A total of 250 leaders out of 1500 members of Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) withdrew their support to the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) and vowed allegiance to government during a Peace Rally held at the Covered Court of Don Restituto Baol Central Elementary School, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental yesterday, October 21, 2020.

The activity was made possible through the joint effort of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Gingoog City, Gingoog City Police Station (CPS), City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO), and the Army’s 58th Infantry “Dimalululpig” Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy.



The former mass supporters who were fed up with the lies and deceptions of the NPA came from different affected communities in Gingoog City such as Brgy Lunao, Santiago, Agay-ayan, Brgy 29, Brgy 24, Brgy 26, Kipuntos, San Luis, San Juan, Punong, and Binakalan.

The highlight during the activity was the burning of CPP-NPA flag which signifies their withdrawal support and at the same time, the Oath of Allegiance to government which also denotes their full support to the campaign against insurgency.

This was followed by the signing of commitment and support of the people of Gingoog to the government’s peace programs.



During the activity, Mr Leopoldo Regis, a former mass organizer shared his experiences on how he was deceived for 18 years and how he struggled on bringing the issues of their communities in rallies hoping for it to be resolved as what the NPA had promised.

However, he was disappointed after realizing that all were false promises and he was only used for organizing associations that will go against the government.

“We are grateful to the Community Support Program (CSP) teams of 58IB and the LGU Gingoog City for their efforts in reaching us, for making us realized the deceptions and exploitations of the CPP-NPA. Now, there will be no more support to the NPA while we are in full support to the government in attaining lasting peace,” said Regis.



In his message, Hon. Erick Cañosa, Municipal Mayor said, “We are peace partners and rest assured that we will give our best effort to drive away these pests from all the communities so that we can achieve peace and development of our beloved city.”

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of 58IB said, “This peace initiative symbolizes the empowerment of the affected communities to fight against terrorists. Moreover, this is a challenge for the Local Chief Executives to strengthen their efforts in resolving issues and concern of their constituents in order to prevent them from being exploited and deceived by the CTGs.”

The said activity was concluded by a march protest rally in which participants were raising placards with messages denouncing NPA infiltration and messages supporting the government’s campaign against insurgency.

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 58th Infantry Battalion, Joint Task Force Diamond, PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/10/former-npa-mass-supporters-hold-peace.html

EASTMINCOM: 11 barangays in AgNor, MisOr towns cleared from CNT affectations

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Oct 23, 2020): 11 barangays in AgNor, MisOr towns cleared from CNT affectations

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion in supervision of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade and in partnership with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the local government units (LGU) of Nasipit and Carmen in Agusan del Norte and the municipality of Magsaysay and Gingoog City in Misamis Oriental conducted an Area Clearing Evaluation (ACE) to the eleven (11) barangays which are considered affected by the influence of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) and declared the aforementioned barangays as cleared from CNT affectations on October 22, 2020.

The eleven (11) villages include Aclan in Nasipit; Poblacion and Rojales in Carmen; Kalipay, Kamanikan and Malinao in Gingoog City; Cabalawan, Mindulao, Tinaan, Gumabon and Abunda in Magsaysay town. The ACE process conducted in the said barangays will be validated by the Area Clearing Validation Board (ACVB).

From June 29 to July 01 this year, series of send-off ceremonies for the Community Support Program (CSP) and Community Action (ComAct) teams were conducted by the 23rd IB, the PNP and the LGUs in the above-stated barangays.



The activities were aimed to identify and address the issues exploited by the CNTs that continue to pollute the minds of the populace and persuade them to go against the government.

Pursuant to the guideline set in the Joint Letter Directive No. 3 of the Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP) and the PNP, a barangay will only be declared as insurgency-free when the parameters are met.

These considerations include the dismantling of the CPP-NPA politico-military structure; the denial of CPP-NPA access to the area, resources, and manpower and the establishment of a functioning barangay information network and integrated community public safety system, among others.

After a thorough analysis and spontaneous contribution of ideas from the local chief executives (LCEs), Punong Barangays, the PNP, 23IB, and other concerned agencies, ACE chairman Col. Cerilo O. Balaoro Jr., the deputy brigade commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade declared that the subject eleven (11) barangays have passed the parameters set by JLD No. 3, revised version, series of 2020, and can now be considered insurgency-free.



The said barangays have sustained the parameters set as totally free from CNT affectation with an endorsement to the National Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to be considered as priority barangays for development in 2021 and on succeeding years.

The LCEs in said municipalities have expressed gratitude to the members of the CSP and ComAct teams of the 23rd IB and the PNP for their untiring efforts to clear the subject barangays from CNT affectation.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the acting commanding officer of 23rd IB commended the barangay captains for their full support to the CSP and ComAct teams and to their dedication in fighting the insurgents in their respective localities.

“Insurgency is not only the concern of the Army, but this is the concern of everybody. We will work together with one mission to end the local armed communist in our municipalities,” Paulo said.



He also expressed sympathy to the struggles, fears and other forms of discomforts that the constituents in said barangays have undergone for years due to the presence of the CNTs.

“Sustain your resistance and defiance against these lawless and heartless terrorists and continue to support the democratic government of this country,” Paulo said.

He added that the dismantling of the organs of the communist movement in these barangays will pave the way for the different government interventions, to include infrastructures projects, economic programs and social services.

Col. Balaoro also commended the chief executives and barangay officials for the support they provided in continuing the campaign against insurgency, as they regarded them as the partners of the AFP and the PNP in peace and development works.



“The clearing evaluation process is an important step, not only in clearing these barangays from the influence of the CNTs, but also in the groundwork of allowing development initiatives that have long been hindered by conflicts caused by the presence of these terrorists,” Balaoro said.

He also emphasized that winning the war against insurgency can only be achieved through combined efforts of all sectors and stakeholders.

“We will work with you in your communities not only to address the security and peace concerns but also to assist and facilitate the delivery of government services,” Balaoro said.

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 23rd Infantry Battalion, Joint Task Force Diamond, PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/10/11-barangays-in-agnor-misor-towns.html

EASTMINCOM: Army, PNP apprehend NPA resource generating team in AgNor

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Oct 24, 2020): Army, PNP apprehend NPA resource generating team in AgNor

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Three (3) members of the New People’s Army (NPA) Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Agusan del Norte were successfully apprehended in their respective residences in a joint operation conducted by the 23rd Infantry Battalion and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Butuan City at around 5:45 on the afternoon of October 21, 2020.

The three (3) NPA members were identified as Sherlita Perales, alias Bago/Bebe/Nanay, legal age, female, married, and a resident of P-4, Brgy Caloc-an, Magallanes, Agusan del Norte; Honey Grace Kamanyan Perales alias Tisay, of legal age, a resident of the same area, and a member of Guerilla Front (GF) 4A of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the NPA; and Maniel Bahian, alias RIBO/REVO, of legal age and an Intel Staff Officer of GF-4A, NCMRC.

The three were apprehended by the joint forces of the 23rd IB, the Magallanes Municipal Police Station, Agusan del Norte Police Mobile Force Company (ADNPMFC) and Butuan City Police Office (BCPO).

Sherlita Perales has a standing arrest warrant for the violation of Republic Act 9516 under Criminal Case No. 2019-517 issued by Judge Eduardo S. Casals of Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 2 in Butuan City while Honey Grace Kamanyan Perales is facing charges for Robbery in Band under Criminal Case No. 2019-610 in RTC Branch 5 in Butuan City.

Bahian, on the other hand, is charged with the crime of Arson under Criminal Case No. 2019-598 at RTC Branch 5 in Butuan C with no Bail Bond.

The three CNTs are members of the fund generating team of GF 4A who receive and collect extorted money and send it to Jelan Pinakilid alias BAKING, the Finance Officer, GF-4A, NCMRC, through money transfer.

“The arrest of the three CNT members is a big blow to the CNTs as we effectively cut their financial and other forms of support,” Paulo said.

The arrest will further weaken the remaining members of GF 4A in the area of Agusan del Norte and Butuan City.

“GF 4A is among the notorious CTG in Caraga Region and known for its extortion activities and harassments of villages especially in remote areas. For years, through the massive operations by the 23rd IB, this communist front is effectively debilitated with a handful of armed members remaining that threaten the local residents in remote areas,” Paulo said.

He emphasized that the Army will not stop in pursuing the remaining members of GF 4A until they make up their mind and go back to the fold of the law.

“We are always willing to help you to go back to normal life and we will never hesitate to assist you in availing the support of the government, especially from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) for you to start a new life,” Paulo said.

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 23rd Infantry Battalion, Joint Task Force Diamond, PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/10/army-pnp-apprehend-npa-resource.html

EASTMINCOM: Tired and hunger urge 6 NPA and militia to surrender via Army unit

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Oct 24, 2020): Tired and hunger urge 6 NPA and militia to surrender via Army unit

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur – Fatigue and food scarcity had pushed the six (6) members of the Communist Terrorist New People`s Army (NPA) and Militia, to lay down their arms and surrendered to the 26th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, today, October 23, 2020.

The surrender of six (6) NPA members consists of four (4) regulars and two (2) militias were the result of the intensified military offensive against them resulting in scarcity of food and fatigue in order to evade the presence of military forces. Anxious for their life and security, the former rebels decided to surrender and leave the terrorist movement bringing along with them their firearms.

In an interview, alias "Ben", one of the former rebels and squad leader of Squad 2, Platoon 1, of SDG COMPAQ, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), burst into tears as he reminisces his troubled life long experience in the armed group and loneliness for being far from his family.

"Lisod kaayo among kahimtang sa sulod tungod sa amung pagpaningkamot nga makaikyas sa mga kasundaluhan nga naggukod sa amua. Wala kami tarong tulog ug kaon ug dili pud me makaduol sa amung mga kanhi masa sa pagpangayo ug tabang tungod nga mahadlok sila nga madamay sa amung gipangbuhat," he said.



Alias "Ben" also expressed his anger towards NPA leadership cursing them that the promised of being equal in the society and inside the armed group as their campaign propaganda to urge more recruits are untrue.

"Sa sulod sa unom katuig ug tulo kabulan nga naglihok ako sa armado, wala gyuy pag asenso sa akong kinabuhi sama sa ilahang gisaad nga kaharuhay nga matagamtagaman kung kami mag apil ug magsuporta sa kumonistang kalihukan. Ug ang kapait, pilion lang nila paghatag ug suporta ang mga pamilya sa among mga kadagkuan, ug kami nga ubos sa ilaha, pulos lang pasalig ang ilang ihatag," he added.

"Busa gina awhag ko ang tanan nakung kanhi kaubanan nga anaa pa sa kalihukan sa pag surrender na mintras dili pa ulahi ang tanan, ang atong gobyerno sa nasud andam mutabang kanato alang sa pagsugod sa bag-ong kinabuhi nga gawasnon uban ang atong pamilya,” alias "Ben" further stated.

The six (6) Former Rebels are currently undergoing custodial debriefing and various types of assessment and documentation prior to enrollment to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government where the Former Rebels will be assisted during their reintegration and starting anew in their community.



Meanwhile, Lt.Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, 26IB Commanding Officer, congratulates the six (6) Former Rebels on their decision to surrender.

“I am glad that these people finally realized the futility of their distorted ideology. They have been experiencing hardships inside the armed group. Gladly, they manage to escape and make their way out of their complicated and messy life inside the terrorist movement. May their experiences urged the remaining members of NPA to go back to mainstream society and live a peaceful life with their family just like what the six (6) of their former comrades have done,” he said.

Lt. Col. Goce also appeals to other remaining members of NPA. “The government is committed to giving its full potential to assist any of you in your transition in going back to mainstream society as it was undertaken in the implementation of EO70 the “whole of nation approach”. But if you were hesitant to the law, I guarantee to all of you that the Army will not hesitate and always ready to use its force against peace spoilers and other threat groups who will continue to spouse terrorism, ” he ended.

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 26th Infantry Battalion, Joint Task Force Diamond, PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/10/tired-and-hunger-urge-6-npa-and-militia.html

EASTMINCOM: Secretary Andanar Inspects Halfway House, Visits Former Rebels in Bukidnon

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Oct 25, 2020): Secretary Andanar Inspects Halfway House, Visits Former Rebels in Bukidnon

IMPASUGONG, Bukidnon - The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) 10 Secretary Martin Andanar inspected the on-going construction of a halfway house and visited the newly created Bukas Kalinaw 8th Infantry "Dependable" Battalion (8IB) Chapter, an organization of former rebels, on Friday, October 23, 2020, at Impasugong Magbuliga Development Complex, Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon.

The construction of the halfway house is one of the programs of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) which the province has allocated PhP5M for its construction while the municipality of Impasugong donated one-hectare of land where the building is being constructed. Sec. Andanar ensured that the said facility will be excellently constructed as a temporary shelter and treatment facility for the former rebels.



Sec. Andanar further visited the Bukas Kalinaw 8IB Chapter – Lumadnong Organisasyong Dalangpanan (LINONDIGAN), an organization of the former rebels of 8IB who benefited from the various interventions of RTF-ELCAC. He also witnessed other interventions of the government such as the two-day skills training dubbed as “TESDA Interventions and Concerns for Bukidnon (TICBuk) Meat Processing” which benefited a total of 20 former rebels and the Arm-to-Farm Program of this unit, a four-hectare farm for former rebels.

The Secretary was accompanied by Mr. Franklin Gumapon, Regional Director of Philippine Information Agency Region 10; Ms. Tarhata S. Mapandi, Regional Director of TESDA – 10; Hon. Maria Norly D. Pepito, Municipal Vice-Mayor of Impasugong; Colonel Ferdinand T. Barandon, Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade; Col Jose Arn M Real, Deputy Commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade and Lieutenant Colonel Edgardo V. Talaroc Jr., Commanding Officer of 8IB during the Secretary's assessment on the implementation of the government's initiatives.



“Si Sec. Andanar nagabisita aron masiguro ang mayo nga pag-implementar ug ka-epektibo sa adbokasiya sa gobyerno sa pagpaundang sa armadong pakigbisog. Kini nagapakita lamang nga ang atong gobyerno seryoso sa pagbatok sa insurhensiya sa atong nasod,” Lt. Col. Talaroc Jr said. (Sec. Andanar visited to ensure the proper implementation and effectiveness of the government’s advocacy in ending armed conflict. This only shows that our government is serious in its fight against insurgency in our country.)

Col. Barandon said “Mapasalamaton ako kang Sec. Andanar sa paghatag nato ug tabang aron maundang ang lokal na komunistang armadong pakigbangi diri sa atong nasod. Ang kasundalohan makasiguro kauban ang among mga kaabag magapadayon sa pagsuporta sa mga programa sa gobyerno sa pagpanday sa kalinaw ug kalamboan sa pagpa-undang sa insurhensiya.”

(I am grateful to Sec. Andanar’s assistance in our shared efforts to end the local communist armed conflict here in our country. Rest assured that the army together with our partners will always support the programs of our government in building peace and development in ending insurgency).

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 8th Infantry Battalion, Joint Task Force Diamond, PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/10/secretary-andanar-inspects-halfway.html

EASTMINCOM: DA-ATI, Army conduct livelihood training at Gabay Farm School

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Oct 25, 2020): DA-ATI, Army conduct livelihood training at Gabay Farm School

MAGPET, Cotabato - The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI ) - Regional Training Center XII under Department of Agriculture (DA) Magpet, in collaboration with Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) and in partnership with the 72nd Infantry (Gabay) Battalion, initiated a 1-Day Training on food availability, accessibility and extension support to household vegetable production to 30 selected members of the People's Organization and selected farmers of Magpet, Pres. Roxas, Kidapawan City all of North Cotabato.

Personnel and CAA of 72IB also joined the training that commenced on October 23, 2020, at the Army unit's newly opened Integrated Farm School in Barangay Pangao-an, Municipality of Magpet.

The said seminar was facilitated by a series of lectures, discussions, and practical demonstrations on proper care, handling, and protecting vegetables against pests/insects; and procedures on how to make organic fertilizer and insecticides.



During the opening program, it was attended by Mr. Abdul I Daya-an, Center Director ATI RTC XII; Mr. Jayson James L Dillera, Technical Staff HVCDP, ATI RTC XII; Mr. Johnny H Pasaquian, Technical Staff - OAP, ATI RTC XII; Mr. Edgardo B Linsag, Municipal Agriculturists, MARO-Magpet; Ms. Donabelle Cabaya, Gabay Farm Manager; and Army personnel under LTC REY T ALVARADO INF (GSC) PA, Battalion Commander of 72IB.

Moreover, at the end of the seminar, distribution of gardening materials: seeds tray sprinkler, trowel, assorted vegetable seeds, and two sacks of organic fertilizer were given to the participants.

Said activity was the fourth training conducted at Gabay-Bayawanon Integrated Farm School operated by 72IB upon the release of its accreditation by the Agriculture Training Institute.

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 72nd Infantry Battalion, Joint Task Force Agila, PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/10/da-ati-army-conduct-livelihood-training.html

EASTMINCOM: Testimonial Parade and Review in Honor of BGEN Joselyn Regis-Bandarlipe

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Oct 25, 2020): Testimonial Parade and Review in Honor of BGEN Joselyn Regis-Bandarlipe

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon – The 52nd Engineer Brigade, Philippine Army hosted a Testimonial Parade and Review in honor of the Deputy Commander of Army Support Command, BGEN Joselyn Regis-Bandarlipe on October 9, 2020, at Camp Colonel Oscar F. Natividad, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

With few remaining weeks in the service, BGEN Bandarlipe opted to visit her former unit assignment. She was accorded with a company-sized arrival honors composed of Female Officers and Enlisted Women of 52nd Engineer Brigade and was received by the Deputy Brigade Commander COL Francis Marlon Wong. She was then escorted to the Brigade Commander’s Office for a courtesy call to BGEN Rommel Hinlo, Commander of 52nd Engineer Brigade.



Shortly after BGEN Rommel Hinlo together with BGEN Bandarlipe spearheaded the blessing and ribbon-cutting of the newly constructed PA POL Dump inside the camp. The ceremony was officiated by CPT Mel Andrey Alcala, Brigade Chaplain.

Subsequently, the Testimonial Parade and Review was held at the parade ground led by LTC Reynaldo Galang, as the Troop Commander with his staff and the Battalion-sized Kaayadan Troops.

During the ceremony, BGEN Hinlo lauded BGEN Bandarlipe’s exemplary leadership and her invaluable service to the AFP. “We all have talents. And leaving a legacy is something we all desire to do and BGEN Bandarlipe succeeded in doing that when she became the first female officer who was designated as Philippine Army Major Unit Commander and later on reached the star rank.”

BGEN Bandarlipe is a proud member of the AFP Officer Candidate School “Sumilang” Class 04-89. Prior to her current position, she held various key positions in the AFP which includes, a female tactical officer of the Philippine Military Academy in 1993 -1997 when the academy had started accepting female cadets, Battalion Commander of 546TH ECB based at Borongan Eastern Samar from 2005-2007, Chief of the Project Management Division, Office of the Chief Engineer, AFP, from 2007-2011, Battalion Commander of 514ECB stationed in Nasugbu, Batangas from 2011-2013, the Deputy Brigade Commander of 52E in 2018, Army Chief of Engineers in 2017-2018 and Brigade Commander 53rd Engineer Brigade, PA in 2019-2020.

She was also a recipient of various awards, decorations, and commendations from the different institutions and organizations both from military and civilian sectors, remarkable of which are Distinguish Service Star, Outstanding Achievement Medal, Military Achievement Medal, Bronze Cross Medal, Gawad sa Kaunlaran, and Military Merit Medal.

In her speech, BGEN Bandarlipe expressed her heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the officers and personnel of 52E for the honor given.

“There is nothing in mind and heart but gratefulness, despite of the situation where every move is restricted because of the fear of Covid. I am very much pleased and humbled, this will be forever cherished and remembered,” BGEN Bandarlipe said in her speech.

Source: Civil-Military Operations Office, 52nd Engineer Brigade, ASCOM. PA

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2020/10/testimonial-parade-and-review-in-honor.html

WESTMINCOM: PAPRU, WestMinCom Chief attend 7th day of prayer for the late MNLF Chairman in Sulu

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Oct 25, 2020): PAPRU, WestMinCom Chief attend 7th day of prayer for the late MNLF Chairman in Sulu

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- October 25, 2020

Sec. Carlito Galvez, Jr. of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (PAPRU), and Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr. of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) personally extended their sympathy to the bereaved families and friends of the late MNLF Chairman Yusop Jikiri on October 25, 2020.

“Chairman Jikiri had been instrumental in the establishment of a stronger partnership between the military and the MNLF,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

“The MNLF played a vital role in the attainment of our numerous significant accomplishments in our campaign against terrorism in the province of Sulu,” the commander added.

Sec. Galvez, Jr., Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr., and the other OPAPRU and military officials, together with the local chief executives of Sulu led by Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan joined the Jikiri family on the 7th day of prayer for the late MNLF Chairman.

They were received by Chairman Jikiri’s wife Dayang-Dayang Hja. Harija Dasani Jikiri and their 12 children at their residence in Pasil, Indanan, Sulu.

Also present were Chairman Alandoni Hassan and Vice-Chairman Hji. Albakil Tong Jikiri of the Moro National Liberation Front-Lupah Sug State Revolutional Committee (MNLF-LSSRC).

Meanwhile, on their arrival in Sulu, Sec. Galvez, Jr. and Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. had a short conference with top-ranking officers of the Joint Task Force Sulu at the Conference Room of the 11th Infantry Division in Busbus, Jolo, Sulu where security concerns were discussed.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
#TeamAFP
#TeamWestMinCom
#WholeofNationApproach

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1890883671053680/1890882901053757/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

Kalinaw News: Serbisyo Caravan sa Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur inilunsad

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 25, 2020): Serbisyo Caravan sa Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur inilunsad

Malita, Davao Occidental – Nagkaroon ng Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Serbisyo Caravan ang LGU Sta Cruz sa Brgy Saliducon, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur kasama ang kasundaluhan ng 73rd Infantry Battalion at ibat ibang ahensya ng gobyerno.

Sa isinagawang Serbisyo Caravan, nakilahok ang mga ahensya ng Department of Trade and Industry(DTI), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) at Municipal Agricultural Office.

Nabenipisyohan ang komunidad ng Brgy Sta. Cruz ng Operation Tuli, libreng pagpapagupit, mga balot ng mga butong-gulay, animal vaccination at libreng pacheck-up. Nakatanggap rin ng “safety gears/kits” ang barangay para sa kanilang turismo.

Ibinahagi ni Peter Renon Sombilon, Punong Barangay ng Sta. Cruz, ang kanyang pasasalamat sa binigay na kooperasyon ng mga ahensya. “Ito ay epektibong masasagawa dahil sa pagsisikap na inilaan ng mga ahensya. Kooperasyon ang susi sa ganitong pagtulong sa mga nangangailangan.”

Sa mensahe na nais ipahiwatig ni Lt. Col. Ronaldo G. Valdez, Pinuno ng 73IB, “Ang pagpapatupad ng Whole-of-the-Nation Approach na ito ay naging posible sa pamamagitan ng suporta at tulong ng pamahalaang-lokal na mabisang tinutugunan ang mga isyung pinagsasamantalahan ng mga komunistang grupo ng terorista.”

Para sa impormasyon ng lahat, ang RCSP ay ang pagdeliber ng mga serbisyo ng gobyerno sa mga tinatawag na “target barangays”. Ang target barangay na ito ay dating kuta ng mga komunistang gulo lamang ang alam.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/serbisyo-caravan-sa-sta-cruz-davao-del-sur-inilunsad/

Kalinaw News: NPA mass supporters yield to government

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 25, 2020): NPA mass supporters yield to government

October 25, 2020- MORE AND MORE members of the Communist-Terrorist New People’s Army and their mass supporters have been seen yielding to the government as they heed the government’s call for genuine peace-building and development.

Following the surrender of 40 NPA members and mass supporters last week, another batch consisting of 37 NPA mass supporters have surrendered yesterday, October 20, 2020. The latest batch of surrenderers came from Sitio Bahawan, Barangay Marayag and Sitio Malig, Barangay Don Mariano Marcos in Lupon town.

They were personally welcomed by the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) Vice-Chairman Mr. Ednar Dayanghirang at the Provincial Capitol wherein a dialogue with the group took place.

Mr. Dayanghirang said that the massive surrender of the CTG members over the recent months is among the effects of the localized implementation of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive Order 70 through Governor Nelson Dayanghirang’s Executive Order 13.

The said national directive, also known as the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, pools all government agencies and local government units together to provide development programs in vulnerable communities, especially from the marginalized sectors who include active NPA members and their families, former rebels, and mass supporters in “white areas”. This said program is strongly pushed under the inclusive governance of Governor Dayanghirang.

Mr. Dayanghirang said that insurgency is not just a mere issue of poverty but the relationship between the government with the people.

He added that the NPA yielding to the government en masse is a testament to how effective the implementation of the EO70 is on the ground. He said that while the armed wing of the Communist-Terrorist group heavily depends on its mass supporters, drawing them back to the government means huge damage to the operation of the NPA.

One of the mass supporters who surrendered named Dodong said he surrendered because he does not want to live in fear anymore. “I want to live in peace with my family,” he said, adding that what strongly drew him to surrender is seeing the sincerity of the government in building genuine peace and ushering development in the province that would benefit all.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npa-mass-supporters-yield-to-government/

Kalinaw News: Isolated father due to NPA recruitment now reunites with his family

Posted to the Kalinaw News (Oct 25, 2020): Isolated father due to NPA recruitment now reunites with his family



TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur – A father separated from his family because of NPA’s deceptive recruitment now rejoins with wife and children after his surrender last October 23, 2020, at 26th Infantry Battalion headquarters.

Alias “Jenar”, a former member of Guerilla Front 88, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNT), after several years of spending his life inside the NPA movement assuming that it will provide comfort and relief from poverty, has now chosen to start a new life with his wife and children. “Mas kaginhawa na ko ug maayo karun nga nakalingkawas na ko sa NPA ug gawasnun na ko nga makapanginabuhi kauban ang akong pamilya”, he said. (“I feel relieved now that I am free from NPA, and I already now have the leisure to earn a living with my family”).

Alias “Jenar” was just one of the victims of deceptive recruitment by the NPA, who, after being recruited, chooses to abandon his family due to the promise of a comfortable life and equal treatment in society. “Mas naglisod paman hinoon ang amuang kahimtang sa dihang niapil ko sa kalihukan. Siguro kung sa taas sa katuigan nga nagtanum nalang ko ug mga falcata imbis nga niapil ko sa NPA, basin naa na koy maani karun. Karun, naghinam hinam na ko nga makauli sa amua arun makauban ang akuang pamilya”, Jenar stated during an interview. (“Our life got even worse upon joining the NPA. If I spent all those long years planting falcata tress, I would have been harvesting them by now. Now, I am very excited to be home soon and be with my family”).

Meanwhile, “Lanie”, wife of Jenar, bringing along with her their youngest child, is very happy to finally meet her husband alive and unhurt. She added that there were no days that she has not felt worried about her husband especially if she hears news about encounters between the NPA and the military. “Permi ko kulbaan kung makabalita ko nga naay gyera sa lasang. Ako dayon maisip ang akuang bana basin lang simbako, kalit nalang muabot ang patay nga lawas sa akung bana sa amua o di gane ilubong nalang sya sa lasang sa iyang mga kauban, unya wala mi kalibutan nga patay na diay sya. Maghulat lang geapon me sa iyaha kay wala man me kahibalo.”, she said. (“I was always worried everytime I hear news about encounters between the NPA and military. I was terrified of the thought of his dead body being brought home, or worse, he could just be buried in the forest by his comrades without us knowing that he’s dead, and we’re left waiting for his comeback”).

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, 26IB commanding officer felt glad upon witnessing the family being reunited. He added that the surrender of “Jenar” and others are very timely, especially that the Christmas season is approaching. “Family is the basic unit in our society. It is the main target of NPA recruitment for disintegration in order to establish separate sectors such as youth sectors, women sectors, etc., for them to be easily exploited and focus their propaganda in each sector for agitation and recruitment to become NPA fighters”, he said.

“I am calling the attention of other NPA members who are still following the distorted ideology of the communist. There is still a chance to be with your family. Pity your family especially your children who are waiting for your homecoming this Christmas. The government is always willing to assist all of you in your new life once you surrender and be with your loved ones”, Lt. Col. Goce added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/isolated-father-due-to-npa-recruitment-now-reunites-with-his-family/

Red-tagged ex-Bayan Muna solon seeks court protection

Posted to Panay News (Oct 25, 2020): Red-tagged ex-Bayan Muna solon seeks court protection

The extrajudicial killings of previously red-tagged activists lcreate a chilling effect among those targeted by the military’s vilification campaign, says former Bayan Muna party-list congressman Siegfred Deduro of Iloilo.

Former Bayan Muna party-list congressman Siegfred Deduro of this city sought protection from the Regional Trial Court (RTC) for his safety after being publicly alleged as a leading officer of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and New People’s Army (NPA) by the military.

Deduro filed a petition for a Writ of Amparo at the Iloilo RTC on Oct. 22 against Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) commanding officer Major General Eric Vinoya because of the latter’s accusation that the former congressman was an official of the CPP-NPA in Western Visayas.

The petition for a Writ of Amparo is a remedy available to any person whose right to life, liberty and security is violated or threatened by an unlawful act or omission of a public official or employee, or of a private individual or entity.

The writ also covers extralegal killings and enforced disappearances or threats thereof.

On June 19, 2020 during the meeting of the Iloilo Provincial Peace and Order Council at Casa Real (old Iloilo provincial capitol building), the military alleged in their presentation of local terrorists that Deduro was a ranking member of the rebel movement.

The following day Deduro released a statement to the media denouncing the aforementioned accusations made by the 3ID and called for a halt to the military’s vilification of him and fellow activists.

He wrote to Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., the chairperson of the Iloilo Provincial Peace and Order Council, requesting for, among others, information on:

* the identities of the military officers who gave the abovementioned presentation and discussion before the peace council

* the directory of the members of the peace council

* status reports of the peace council prepared and/or submitted in relation to the June 19, 2020 meeting of the said body.

Deduro is a founding member and the vice president for Visayas of the Bayan Muna party-list and also of the Makabayan Coalition until today.

He was a representative of Bayan Muna in the 12th Congress.

Deduro also worked as manager and later on as management consultant for the Panay Fair Trade Center and its predecessor, the Panay Fruits & Trading Corp.

He was also the first secretary-general of the Madia-as Ecological Movement.

Deduro also served as a consultant for the Office of the Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform, under then secretary Rafael Mariano.

According to Deduro, the accusation of the military was false and malicious, making him a target of government military or para-military units.

“The extrajudicial killings of previously red-tagged activists like Jory Porquia, Zara Alvarez, Escalante City councilor Toto Patigas, and Negros Occidental human rights lawyer Ben Ramos, among others, create a chilling effect among those targeted by the military’s vilification campaign,” said Deduro.

http://www.panaynews.net/red-tagged-ex-bayan-muna-solon-seeks-court-protection/

Parlade merely warning celebrities vs. Red front groups: DND sec

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 25, 2020): Parlade merely warning celebrities vs. Red front groups: DND sec (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (PNA File photo)

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Sunday said Lt. General Antonio Parlade Jr., Southern Luzon Command (SolCom) chief, was merely warning celebrities on the risk of joining front-groups or organizations of communist terrorists.

This, according to Lorenzana when asked by reporters on whether he had already talked with Parlade, spokesperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF ELCAC), earlier got the flak for advising actress Liza Soberano to abdicate her ties with Gabriela Youth after she participated in a webinar with the group last week.

"Me and Gen. Parlade had a talk about the red-tagging accusations by the front-organizations. Gen. Parlade said that what he meant was to warn and caution these celebrities in joining or advocating fronts of the CPP-NPA-NDF, which Gabriela is one," Lorenzana said in a message to reporters, referring to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front.

"Just to be clear we were not the ones who red-tagged them. It was (CPP founder) Jose Maria Sison himself who identified them as fronts of the CPP-NPA-NDF. To accuse us (military and police) of red-tagging them in the face of Sison’s admission is the height of naïveté," Lorenzana added.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Lorenzana added that he cautioned Parlade from red-tagging anybody without evidence.

"Associating with Gabriela, per se, does not mean a person advocates and supports its ideology. Therefore, it is our duty to forewarn them less they fall into a trap," he added.

He said he has directed the SolCom chief to continue with what he is doing with "some caveats" as not to unnecessarily include or accuse innocent people who are well-meaning and want to do good things for others.

"Lastly, thru their lawyer, the family of Ms. Liza Soberano has expressed its thanks and appreciation to the AFP/PNP, for warning and defending Liza from these front organizations," Lorenzana said.

Parlade, who was accused by some sectors of red-tagging the actress, earlier said he was only warning and informing Soberano and Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, on the nature of Gabriela.

"On Liza and Catriona, he (Parlade) was only making them aware of the nature of Gabriela that it is a front of a terrorist organization. Our basis is (Proclamation) 374 s. 2017 (which)declares the CPP-NPA-NDF as a terror organization," Lorenzana added.

Earlier, the NTF ELCAC clarified that it is not red-tagging celebrities Soberano and Gray but only reminding the two women to be wary of the groups that they are getting in touch with.

In a recent radio interview, lawyer Marlon Bosantog, NTF ELCAC legal cooperation cluster spokesperson, said role models like celebrities and showbiz personalities may give a sense of legitimacy to the advocacies being pushed forward by leftist organizations such as the Gabriela Youth.

Soberano recently participated in and was one of the speakers in an event led by Gabriela.

Bosantog, also Director for Legal Affairs of the National Commission of Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), said Parlade did not red-tag Soberano nor Gray when he called out their attention.

“Gen. Parlade did not red-tag Liza and Catriona, what he was saying was that the organizations getting in touch with them are leftist organizations and are allies of the CPP-NPA-NDF like the Gabriela Youth that invited Liza Soberano, taking advantage of her popularity so they could recruit or give a sense of legitimacy to their advocacy,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino.

“They were not red-tagged by saying that they are members of the CPP-NPA-NDF because that is red-tagging when someone says that you are a member but he did not say that,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1119667